As Kris gets ready to head to New Zealand for the ECC Conference, she sits down with Simon, Chief Executive at the Early Childhood Council of New Zealand. Simon brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in policy and advocacy for early learning in New Zealand. He discusses the current challenges facing early childhood education in the country and how he and his team are working to overcome them. Simon explores the nuances of New Zealand’s early education system and its impact on the global stage, and he opens up about the unique global perspective and innovative approaches to ECE in New Zealand, shedding light on their high-quality experiential curriculums for children. He and Kris also preview some of the “don’t miss” amazing offerings coming up at the conference so you can plan your schedule accordingly.   Key Takeaways: [8:55] Simon joins the show from Wellington, New Zealand. [9:35] The Early Childhood Council is membership-based with about 860 members across New Zealand. They run about 1500 centers across the country. [13:50] More about Simon’s background in government policy and how it was a chance to specifically recruit someone with his skill set. [14:22] One of the ways of dealing with a threat is to try and have someone who understands quite deeply how the other side works. [15:18] Simon’s previous role at the Ministry of Education. [17:39] What is really going on between the government and the early childhood community and industry? [19:30] What politicians say doesn’t always match up with their actions when it comes to helping the childhood industry. [25:19] How do we not only survive but stay positive during this time? [29:56] The importance of keeping ourselves inspired for not only us, but the children, their families, and our staff. [34:05] It is also important to be realistic, and when the going gets tough, you need to have an exit strategy. [37:56] What can we expect from the ECC conference in July? Simon and Kris talk about some sessions and panelists to not miss.   Quotes: “My background is government policy. So that was a change of tack from the organization to specifically recruit someone with my skill set.” — Simon [11:05] “If you talk to any politician, they will tell you about the benefits of early childhood and how important that is. But, you know, actions speak louder than words. And if you follow the money, they might say that, but when it comes down to it, they make choices and they put their money into other things.” — Simon [19:30] “The quality of early childhood for the child can and does run parallel to the investment in business skills, and best practices, which then flow down a trickle down to the leaders which flow to the teachers, kids and the parents.” — Kris [24:19] “We need to also do this dance where we can continue to keep ourselves inspired and positive so that we don’t just fall into a rut of despair.” — Kris [29:45] “When the going gets really tough, you need to have an exit strategy.” — Simon [34:05]   Sponsored By: ChildCare Education Institute (CCEI) Use the code CCSC5 to claim a free course!   Mentioned in This Episode: Kris Murray The Child Care Success Company The Child Care Success Academy The Child Care Success Summit Grow Your Center Childcare Education Institute: use code CDARenewal22 to get $100 off your renewal Simon Laube Early Childhood Council ECC Conference